Division of Oncology

Jeffrey A. Kern, MD Division Chief

What do we do?

The Oncology Division is dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment and long-term follow-up and monitoring of individuals with known or suspected cancer. We diagnose and treat all adult cancers, with emphasis on cancer of the: lungs (thoracic), head and neck (ears, mouth, throat and sinuses) or stomach and intestinal (esophageal, stomach, gallbladder, liver, pancreas, colon, rectal, anal) cancers. We are pleased to participate in your evaluation at any point. We can review abnormal X-rays, CTs or PET scans. We offer state-of-the art therapy for patients diagnosed with cancer. Our Oncology team also is available to give second opinions regarding a diagnosis or treatment recommendation.

Why National Jewish Health?

No one knows lungs better than our experts. National Jewish Health is the leading respiratory hospital in the nation. We were named a top hospital in pulmonology by the U.S. News & World Report for 28 consecutive years, every year that pulmonology has been evaluated. The U.S. News also recognizes our lung cancer surgery program as "High Performing," the highest ranking for this specialty. 

In addition, National Jewish Health is recognized as a Screening Center of Excellence by the Lung Cancer Alliance/G02 Foundation for Lung Cancer and a Designated Lung Cancer Screening Center by the American College of Radiology. Our lung cancer screening program also has been certified by the State of Colorado as a Healing Arts Screening Program. 

Our lung expertise intimately connects us to the lungs, head and neck. Many years ago we added gastrointestinal (GI) specialists to care for our patients who also developed those issues. Our GI program has grown and now includes cancer screening and care.

Additionally, our Division now treats all types of adult cancers, including blood and bone cancers, prostate cancer, brain tumors, breast cancer and leukemias to name just a few.

Each patient has a multidisciplinary team to help them through every step of the cancer journey. Team members include lung specialists, medical oncology experts, pathologists specifically trained in cancers of the lung, expert radiologists capable of interpreting all types of radiologic images, radiation oncologists to deliver needed radiation therapy, surgeons and dedicated nurses. This expert group, through frequent meetings to review patient progress, ensures that state-of-the art care is provided to everyone.